Things to Know About Blood Donation
Donate blood, is an extremely important action in terms of public health. Blood donations are needed to save millions of people's lives every year. However, there is a lot of misinformation and prejudice in society about blood donation. In this article, we will cover in detail the effects of blood donation on health, who can donate blood, and how the donation process works.
Health Effects of Blood Donation
Many people think that donating blood can be harmful to their health. However, research has shown that Healthy individuals should donate blood regularly. It does not cause permanent anemia. The human body has the necessary mechanisms to replace donated blood. In particular, while only 200-250 mg of iron is lost during blood donation, this amount can be quickly compensated with a balanced diet.
Who Can Donate Blood?
There are certain criteria for donating blood. First of all, donors must be between the ages of 18-65 and weigh at least 50 kg. In addition, the donor's general health condition is also taken into account. HIV, Hepatitis B and C Individuals who do not have any contagious diseases such as diabetes, heart disease or a history of certain cancers can donate blood. In order for the donation process to proceed healthily, detailed information about current health status and medications used should be provided during the application.
Blood Donation Process
The blood donation process usually takes about 30-40 minutes. First, information about the donor's health is obtained. Then, pulse, blood pressure and temperature are measured. Hemoglobin test A small blood sample is taken from the finger for the blood sample. If the results are appropriate, the donation process begins. During a whole blood donation, approximately 450 mL of blood is taken. During this process, the donor's condition is constantly monitored.
Things to Consider After Blood Donation
After donating blood, there are some things that donors should pay attention to. First, it is recommended that they consume plenty of fluids. In addition, donors are advised to stay away from places where people smoke for 2 hours and not to do heavy exercise. After donating blood, light food and drinks are offered, which helps donors prevent side effects such as sudden drops in blood pressure or dizziness.
Benefits of Donating Blood
- Saving Lives: Donating blood provides direct benefits to save the lives of others.
- Psychological Relaxation: It creates psychological relief in the individual and strengthens the sense of belonging to society.
- Requirement for Emergency Situations: Blood is needed in emergencies such as accidents, surgeries and childbirth.
- Social Solidarity: Blood donation campaigns strengthen social solidarity.
- Regeneration of Blood: After donating blood, the body speeds up the production of new cells in the bone marrow to replace lost blood cells.
- Protection of Stocks: Regular blood donations enable hospitals and blood banks to maintain their stocks.
- Balancing Iron Levels: Excess iron accumulation can damage organs; blood donation prevents this situation.
Situations That Cause Rejection of Blood Donation
In some cases, blood donation may be temporarily or permanently rejected. Temporary rejections include fevers such as flu and cold, tooth extraction, surgical interventions and tattoos. People who cannot donate permanently include those with infectious diseases, heart disease or a history of certain cancers. Therefore, it is extremely important to check their health status before donating.
Conclusion
Blood donation is of critical importance for the health of individuals and society. This process offers many benefits to both the donor and the recipient. Healthy individuals can help themselves and others by donating blood at regular intervals. It should not be forgotten that each blood donation has the potential to save a life.
